Centreville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and what to eat in Centreville, Virginia. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of this beautiful Northern Virginia town.


Introduction to Centreville

Centreville is a small suburban town located in Fairfax County, Northern Virginia. It is known for its rich history and cultural attractions. Centreville is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its scenic views, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures. In this travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Centreville, Virginia.

List of Places to Visit in Centreville

If you are planning a trip to Centreville, add these places to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sully Historic Site: A National Historic Landmark, this 18th-century mansion was once the home of Richard Bland Lee, Northern Virginia’s first representative in Congress.
  • Ellanor C. Lawrence Park: A 650-acre park featuring trails, gardens, and historical buildings, including the Walney Visitor Center, where you can learn about the history and culture of the area.
  • Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim: A must-visit for history buffs, this museum offers insight into the Civil War and how it affected the local area.

Natural Attractions of Centreville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bull Run Regional Park: Spread over 1,500-acres, this park is known for its beautiful trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
  • Manassas National Battlefield Park: Explore the historic Civil War battlefield through its walking trails and ranger-led tours.
  • Green Spring Gardens Park: A beautiful park featuring botanical gardens and trails that are perfect for taking a peaceful stroll.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Centreville

Centreville is a haven for hikers and bikers. Here are some popular trails you can explore:

  • Bull Run-Occoquan Trail: A challenging trail that spans over 18 miles and offers a variety of terrains to explore.
  • Cub Run Stream Valley Trail: A beginner-friendly trail that takes you through the picturesque Cub Run Stream Valley.
  • Virginia Central Railway Trail: A 44-mile long trail that passes through Centreville and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Centreville: Activities and Tours

Centreville offers a range of fun and exciting activities that are perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.

  • Visit Cox Farms: This family-owned farm offers various activities such as hayrides, pumpkin patches, and a Cornundrum maze.
  • Go on a Wine Tasting Tour: Visit the Paradise Springs Winery, known for its award-winning wines. The winery offers guided tours and tastings.
  • Try Your Hand at Archery: Head to the Bull Run Shooting Center for an exciting archery experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Centreville

If you have a week to spare, follow this itinerary to make the most of your time in Centreville.

Day Activity
1 Visit Sully Historic Site, stroll through Ellanor C. Lawrence Park
2 Explore the Manassas National Battlefield Park
3 Go on a hike at Bull Run Regional Park
4 Take a tour of the Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim
5 Relax at Green Spring Gardens Park
6 Visit Cox Farms
7 Go on a wine tasting tour at Paradise Springs Winery

Food and Drink Scene of Centreville

Centreville offers a diverse food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gyro: Gyro offers an authentic Mediterranean experience with its delicious gyro wraps and plates.
  • Pho: Try the classic beef or chicken pho at Xuan Saigon for a delicious Vietnamese experience.
  • Peri-Peri Chicken: Nando’s offers the peri-peri chicken, famous for its African roots, marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Head to the BadWolf Brewing Company for some locally brewed beer.
  • Wine: Try award-winning wines at the Paradise Springs Winery.

Where to Stay in Centreville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is no shortage of accommodation options in Centreville. Here are some options to consider:

  • Westfield Marriott Washington Dulles: A luxurious hotel that offers comfortable rooms and amenities such as a gym, pool, and a restaurant.
  • Holiday Inn Express Fairfax-Centreville: A budget-friendly option that offers clean rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Oakton’s Carriage House: A charming guesthouse offering a peaceful, country-style experience.

What to Buy in Centreville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to take a piece of Centreville with you, here are some souvenirs and local products you can buy:

  • Centreville t-shirt: Grab a t-shirt from the Cox Farms Country Store as a keepsake of your visit.
  • Jewelry by The Secret Garden: Buy handcrafted jewelry made from natural elements by The Secret Garden.

Local Culture and Customs of Centreville

Centreville is a diverse town, and the locals are hospitable and welcoming. Remember to respect the local culture and customs during your stay.

Best Time to Visit Centreville

The best time to visit Centreville is from April to September, during the spring and summer months. The weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Centreville

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take care of the environment by following the “Leave No Trace” principles.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.
  • Ignore safety rules and guidelines.

Safety and Health

Centreville is a safe town, and there are no significant health concerns to worry about. However, it is always best to take precautionary measures to avoid any mishaps.

Safety in Centreville

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or exploring natural areas.
  • Follow safety rules and guidelines while participating in adventure activities.
  • Avoid carrying valuable items while on your trip.

Health in Centreville

  • Carry necessary medication and a first aid kit.
  • If you have allergies, inform your accommodation provider and carry necessary medication.

Getting to Centreville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Centreville is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Centreville

  • Washington Dulles International Airport: located 16 miles from Centreville
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: located 28 miles from Centreville

Bus Stations Near Centreville

  • Fairfax Connector bus

Other Options

  • Rental Cars
  • Uber/Lyft

How to Get Around in Centreville

A rental car is the most convenient way to get around in Centreville. However, public transport options such as the Fairfax Connector bus are also available.

Where to Go Next from Centreville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore nearby destinations, here are some places to consider:

  • Alexandria, Virginia
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Arlington, Virginia

Conclusion

Centreville offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, making it a must-visit destination in Northern Virginia. With its beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage, Centreville guarantees to offer an unforgettable experience to its visitors.